Get the Most Out of the Interview

For seniors submitting college applications this fall, you’re likely discovering that turning in all of that work is not always the final step in the process. Far from it! You might be asked to interview – and it’s important to plan for it properly.

Since the large applicant pool of many selective institutions far exceeds the capacity of their admissions office to contact each student individually, sometimes interviews are conducted by alumni volunteers, usually from your area or even your community.

Make no mistake: a strong interview is likely NOT enough to outshine the key aspects of your academic record, extracurricular accomplishments, and letters of reference that you’ve already provided in your application. In fact, at many schools, the interview is optional. So should you even do it? Yes! A positive impression can sometimes move the needle. More importantly, this is also an invaluable opportunity for you to learn more about that school as you weigh all of your options.

To get the most out of a college admissions interview, here are some tips:

· If you are offered an interview, be sure to accept! Admissions officers will question the sincerity of your interest in their institution if you decline. That could reflect poorly on you as they make their final decision.

· Think about your Zoom background and overall presentation. During the pandemic, most of these interviews will be done virtually: do you want them to see your bedroom wall plastered with 10 year old posters? Maybe those posters show your personality; but just as likely they will be a distraction. And although you don’t need to style yourself like it is time to go to the prom, do dress in a way that means you’ll be remembered positively. First impressions matter!

· Control your narrative. Prepare a few talking points about yourself (who you are, where you are from, what you hope to accomplish in college and beyond) to make a good impression.

· Do a mock interview! At Arthur Smith Advising, we help students with this all the time. It always helps with nerves if you’ve gone through a practice round in advance.

· Engage in a conversation. Come prepared with several questions and be sure to personalize those questions. If you are interviewing with an alum, you could ask: what did they enjoy most about their undergraduate days? If the interview is with a professional admissions officer, you could ask: what do they appreciate most about being part of that school’s community? One of the best ways to be remembered fondly is to get the interviewer talking about their own experiences! 

· Do no harm. Be sure you’ve done basic research (city name, mascot, size) on the school before the interview. This will help you avoid obvious gaffes that could give the admissions officer a reason to say no to you.

· Follow-up the next day with a personalized thank you email! 

Above all, make the session a two-way street. You’ll make a positive impression, and learn a great deal in the process, if you demonstrate curiosity in a meaningful conversation.